What are the Commas?

The comma (,) is one of the most widely used--and misused--punctuation marks.

Rules for using commas

1. Use a comma to separate items in a list of more than two items.

Example

blue, red, and white

2. Use a comma to set off the "said tag" of a quotation from the words actually spoken.

Example

My friend asked, "May I borrow your book?"

3. Use a comma before the coordinating conjunction in a compound sentence.

Example

The Temperance Union fought against alcoholism, and Carry Nation was one of their most famous leaders.

4. Use a comma after an adverbial clause that starts a complex sentence.

Example

Although her methods were violent, Carry Nation had good intentions.

5. Use a comma to set off long introductory phrases before the main sentence.

Example

At the beginning of the twentieth century, Carry Nation battled against the destructive powers of alcoholism.

6. Use a comma to set off participial phrases.

Examples

Wielding her hatchet, Carry Nation terrorized drinking establishments.
Carry Nation, wielding her hatchet, terrorized drinking establishments.

7. Use commas to set off adjectival clauses which are not vital to the meaning of the sentence.

Examples

The woman who was wielding the ax was Carry Nation. (The adjectival clause is vital to the sentence.)
The woman, whose name was Carry Nation, brought enormous attention to the plight of women and children whose lives were ruined by men who drank to excess. (The clause is parenthetical in meaning, and not vital to the sentence.)

8. Place commas between words in a list of adjectives. Do not put one between the last adjective in the list and the noun it modifies.

Example

Blue, red, and white designs are considered patriotic.

9. Use a comma on each side of an appositive.

Example

Carry Nation, the most famous leader of the Temperance Union, fought for Prohibition.